🔗 Share this article El Kaabi's Spectacular Goal Secures Morocco's Victory Over Comoros in Africa Cup of Nations First Game. Host nation the Moroccan side shook off a nervy beginning to beat Comoros in the tournament's first match on the weekend, with goals from the Real Madrid attacker and substitute El Kaabi in the second half. It was a less than dominant display, however, from the heavily tipped hosts, who are ranked 97 places higher than the small Indian Ocean nation in the world rankings and were forced to toil hard for the victory in wet conditions at the national stadium. Tense Start and Missed Chances Morocco failed to convert an first-half penalty and were goalless at half-time despite controlling the ball, finally opening the scoring in the 55th minute. It arrived after Noussair Mazraoui did well to keep the ball in play before laying it square for Díaz to calmly pass into the net. “The opening game is never easy but we delivered in the second period,” commented manager Regragui. The Substitute's Moment of Brilliance The tension was subsequently calmed by a moment of sheer individual brilliance from Ayoub El Kaabi. Only ten minutes following coming on, the forward connected with a cross with a acrobatic overhead kick in the 74th minute, doubling and sealing the win. Earlier in the match, the Moroccan team could have been ahead in the 11th minute when a penalty was awarded for a foul on Brahim Díaz. Yet, Soufiane Rahimi effort was kept out by Comoros goalkeeper Yannick Pandor. Comoros Resistance and Second-Half Chance The underdogs comfortably held Morocco at bay until the hosts' greater quality eventually made the difference. Shot-stopper Yannick Pandor pulled off a number of further fine saves to keep down the score as the match wore on, although Comoros created a chance for an equalizer shortly after Díaz's goal, with Rafiki Saïd firing straight at keeper Yassine Bounou. Fitness Worry for Morocco The victory was partially overshadowed by an injury to the captain, Saïss, who limped off in the first half in some distress. The centre-back had only made his comeback to the international setup recently after a year’s absence due to ankle surgery. The win extends the team's record-breaking run of consecutive wins to 19, surpassing the old best of 15 set by Spain between 2008 and 2009.